Production Rig Equipment

Well service and workover hoisting units—generally called “production rigs”—have been developed in step with the drilling and completion practices outlined in other lessons in this series. The gradual change from permanent structures over every well, each with its own power plant, hoist, and lifting tackle, to the bare wellheads of today has been an evolutionary process. Wooden derricks have been replaced by steel masts and portable hoists that can be moved from job to job. More powerful engines, improved transmissions, and better brake arrangements have made this equipment as reliable as the modern automobile. Hydraulic power units and other labor-saving tools are employed to reduce the manual effort formerly needed for this work. Specialized rigs have been assembled for marine work.